It’s very easy to test a smoke detector. Just hold the test button for a few seconds and confirm the alarm sound. Who needs instruction for that, right? Probably the hardest part is to reach the button if the alarm is located high or to remember to test it every month.
But did you know that if you are a landlord, you are responsible for providing one tenant per dwelling unit with written information regarding detector testing and maintenance?
http://www.ilga.gov/legislation/ilcs/ilcs3.asp?ActID=1640&ChapterID=38 (straight from the IL General Assembly website)
While not providing the written testing and maintenance information probably won’t cause you an immediate issue, these are the things you don’t want to miss, as eventually if you cut a corner here and there, you could get into a trouble.
So what can you do about this? If you haven’t done it yet, give the written testing and maintenance information to your tenants, and have them sign it, so that you have proof. If you are using a property manager, ask them if they have provided the information.
Next, ask your attorney if it’s OK to put it in the lease so that you will never forget to provide it in the future.
Finally, are you sure you know all the laws? It’s not going to be fun but read the entire “Landlord and Tenant” Act. You can find them below.
http://www.ilga.gov/legislation/ilcs/ilcs2.asp?ChapterID=62
You need to read more if you rent in Chicago.
